Catalog
DescriptionThis course
helps students develop their critical thinking and writing skills beyond the
level achieved in English 1. The course emphasizes the application of logical
reasoning, analysis, and strategies of argumentation in critical thinking and
writing, using literature (both fiction and non-fiction) and literary
criticism as subject matter.

Course Objectives

English 2 teaches students to analyze, interpret, and
examine the three genres of literature: poetry, drama, and fiction. We will
examine elements such as structure, character, point of view, style, tone,
symbol, and theme. We will apply critical perspectives to the literary texts to
foster critical thinking skills.

Reading
is a crucial aspect of university life. You should read the material before
class. Read the text carefully, highlighting passages you find persuasive,
interesting, or even confusing. Write your questions regarding the text down and
bring them to class for discussion. The more time you spend reading, re-reading,
asking questions, and writing reactions, the more your academic life will be
enhanced and enriched."We...write [and read] to
heighten our own awareness of life...We write to taste life twice, in the moment
and in the retrospection...We write to be able to transcend our life, to reach
beyond it..." Anais Nin.

5 Academic Essays including a Final essay exam. Quizes and
Homework Questions.
All papers must be typed, double-spaced, with MLA
documentation.

Attendance and
ParticipationRegular
attendance and participation is expected. SMC policy allows three hours of
unexcused absence. After three hours you may be dropped from the course, or
receive a lower final grade. Due dates
Late papers will receive lower grades. Papers over a week late will not be
accepted. If you need an extension on a due date, contact me before the paper is
due.
If you are having difficulty with an assignment, please do
not hesitate to call me. Do not wait until the paper is due to call. I am here
to help.Class
Decorum:Pleaseturn off pagers and cell phonesbefore entering class. If
you must come in late, walk in quietly; try not to disrupt the class already in session.

Grading
(tentative)

Essays15%
each

60%

Final essay exam

20%

Quizzes, writing responses, Participation

20%

Total

100%

Plagiarism
is defined as using another person's ideas, language, or thoughts as if they are
your own. It is a serious offense and will be dealt with severely; you could
fail the assignment and/or possibly the course. You may be reported to the Dean,
or possibly suspended from the University.

Syllabus(subject to change)

Week 1

Course Introduction: Introduction to the Short
Story. Read "Plot" and In Class Writing.